New Hampshire Theatre Project’s 26thseasonopens withThe School for Wives, written by Moliere and translated by Richard Wilbur. A classic example of farce and considered to be one of the finest illustrations of Moliere's comic writing.

The School for Wivescreated quite a scandal when it was first performed in 1660. Thematically provocative for its time, the play pokes fun at the male dominance and hierarchy of the French renaissance period and still packs a punch today. Though the male tries to create the perfect, ignorant wife, his fate is that he shall never have her – as she outsmarts him at every turn. He is the bumbling fool, and she gets her true love. For newcomers and fans of classic dramatic literature alike, this production promises a delightful combination of uproarious comedy, heightened style, and a provocative look at society’s gender mores.

The School for Wivesis directed by NHTP resident artist Blair Hundertmark, who recently returned from another summer season at the Barnstormers Theatre (America’s Oldest Professional Summer Stock Theater) where he directed the hilarious farceOne Man, Two Guvnorsand Ken Ludwig’s popular romantic comedyBe My Baby. TheSchoolcast includes local favorites Gabrielle Archambault, Jamie Bradley, Becky Rudolf, Robin Fowler, Todd Hunter, and Paul Strand, along with newcomer Josh Paradis. Also new to NHTP, Wallace Pineault of Manchester and New England College will design the lighting and set. Actor Gabrielle Archambault will double as costume designer, while Robin Fowler and Rachel Vilandre will stage manage.